The retired NYPD sergeant killed in Afghanistan over the weekend was working there in order to save money so he could send his kids to college, a close family friend said yesterday.

Kevin O’Rourke, 52, went to work as a contractor in Afghanistan this year to support his 14-year-old son and 16-year-old daughter, according to his longtime pal, retired Emergency Service Unit Lt. John Moran, 53.

“He loved them very much. He would do anything for them,” Moran said.

“That played a part in his decision to go over there, and try to give them a better life — to try to help them out financially and for college.”

Moran and O’Rourke volunteered together to help during Hurricane Katrina and the Haiti earthquake.

“He had a kind soul, a very heartwarming personality that would help anyone in need,” said Moran. “He was always committed to his life, especially his kids.”